Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte Recipe

Introduction

This Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte is a delightful dish combining tender, thinly sliced potatoes with fragrant thyme and tangy balsamic vinegar. Crisped to perfection in the oven, it makes an impressive side or vegetarian main that’s both flavorful and elegant.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet recommended)
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a similarly sized baking dish.
2. Step 2: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about ⅛ inch thick, using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: Add the sliced potatoes to the marinade and gently toss to coat them evenly.
5. Step 5: Layer the potatoes in the prepared pan in an overlapping circular pattern. Repeat layers until the pan is filled, keeping layers flat.
6. Step 6: If using, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese between some layers for added creaminess and flavor.
7. Step 7: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and absorb flavors.
8. Step 8: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
9. Step 9: Let the torte cool in the pan for about 15 minutes to set and make slicing easier.
10. Step 10: Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert the torte onto a serving plate and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture or Russet potatoes for a fluffier result.
• Try adding caramelized onions between layers for extra sweetness and depth.
• Substitute mozzarella with Gruyère or Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor.
• Marinate the potatoes for 30 minutes before baking to intensify the balsamic and thyme flavors.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the crust crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor profile will change slightly. Balsamic gives a sweet tang that complements the thyme well.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this torte is naturally gluten-free as it contains only potatoes, herbs, vinegar, and optional cheese. Just ensure any added ingredients are also gluten-free.

Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 70 reviews

This Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte is a deliciously layered and flavorful dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes marinated in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and fresh thyme. Baked until tender and topped with a golden, crispy crust, this torte offers a perfect balance of tangy, herbaceous, and savory flavors. Optional mozzarella cheese adds creamy richness between the layers, making it an impressive yet simple potato side or vegetarian main dish.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes

• 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet recommended)

Marinade

• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Additional

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about ⅛ inch thick, using a mandoline or a sharp knife for even cooking and layering.
3. Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Coat the Potatoes: Add the thin potato slices into the marinade bowl and gently toss them to ensure each slice is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
5. Layer the Potatoes: Begin layering the marinated potato slices in the prepared pan, arranging them in an overlapping circular pattern. Continue layering until the pan is filled, making sure to keep the slices flat and evenly spread.
6. Add Cheese: If using, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese between some of the layers for added creaminess and enhanced flavor.
7. Cover and Bake: Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through and absorb all the flavors.
8. Crisp the Top: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This will give the top a beautiful golden brown color and a crispy texture.
9. Cool the Torte: After baking, take the torte out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes to help it set, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
10. Slice and Serve: Run a knife around the edges to loosen the torte, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor or Russet potatoes for fluffier layers.
• Thinner potato slices result in a more tender torte that cooks evenly.
• Fresh thyme enhances the herbal aroma, but dried thyme works well as a substitute.
• Mozzarella cheese is optional but adds a creamy texture and richness to the dish.
• Letting the torte cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its structure.
• Serve alongside salads or roasted meats for a complete meal.

Keywords: potato torte, balsamic vinegar, thyme, crispy potato dish, vegetarian side, baked potato recipe, mozzarella potato bake